What Are The Things To Do In Galle Fort, Sri Lanka? Exploring A UNESCO Heritage Site

BY  Sibashree Mar 26, 2026

If you are like me, your first trip to Japan probably started off in Tokyo, surrounded by bright neon lights and an astounding number of people moving around to get from place to place. Tokyo is a logical starting point because of the many inexpensive daily flights that arrive, as well as its efficient public transportation, making it very easy to get around and communicate with those whom you meet there, because they speak some English. But let me tell you a little secret I learned from spending two different trips to Japan over the course of three weeks. Although I had fun in Tokyo, I’m definitely not a big progressive city person. The real beauty and the heart of Japan are found away from the chaos of Tokyo. The true essence of Japan can be experienced at its best in either the peaceful mountains high above the sea or in the salty air along the coast of Japan. So if you are planning on staying in Tokyo for more than three days, do yourself a favor and venture outside of the city limits.  These are my favorite day trips from Tokyo. You can travel to each of these destinations within 1 to 2 hours. What Are The Best Day Trips From Tokyo?  Tokyo is an incredible gateway. However, Japan’s true magic is often found in the places where the skyscrapers disappear.  Whether you want the spray of the ocean in Kamakura or the mountain air of Hakone, I promise that leaving the city for just a day will change how you see the country. From Mount Fuji to Kyoto, the Soul of Japan, the day trips from Tokyo are as diverse as they can be.  Here is a detailed account of my experience in those places.  1. Mount Fuji And Kawaguchiko: The Icon Travel Time: 2 Hours  How to Reach There: Highway buses from Shinjuku or Shibuya (~¥1,250–¥2,000 one way). If I can only recommend one escape, it will be Kawaguchiko, a town located right at the foot of Mt. Fuji.  "Shy" Fuji hides behind a curtain of clouds and can be quite elusive. While I visited, Fuji showed off for me on several occasions. I spent an entire day in this beautiful town, but would recommend an overnight stay at one of the many traditional ryokans situated on the lake if possible. There, you will notice the the juxtaposition of Fuji's reflection on Lake Kawaguchi at sunrise will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Highlights From My Visit Climbing the 398 steps of Chureito Pagoda was strenuous. However, the meditation-like calm through the forest made it worthwhile. I was fortunate enough to see the iconic site of the Red Pagoda with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop, as the clouds rolled in and covered the summit of Fuji. Hōtō noodles are a local specialty and are made up of thick, flat noodles cooked in a Japanese miso broth. Eating them will feel like a warm hug! So, don’t forget to try it.  2. Nikko: A Place Of Mist And Masterpieces Travel Time: 2 Hours How to Get There: Tobu Railway from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko Station. When you visit Nikko, you will see all that it has to offer in the stunning, misty forests and cedar trees. Moreover, the detailed and ornate shrines seem to be jewelry boxes.    Insider Tip:  Arrive before 9 am at Lake Chuzenji to witness how the morning light creates an incredibly peaceful scene on the water.  If you arrive later than 9 am, visit the Toshogu Shrine first, which is where Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu is buried and features the famous three monkeys, "See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil". Many people come to see Kegon Falls, but it can be crowded due to the high tourist volume.  Unless you arrive at dawn, I would recommend skipping Kegon Falls and enjoying the calm waters of the lake instead. 3. The Coastal Soul Of Japan: Kamakura Travel Time: 1 hour How to Get There: JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station (¥940 one way). Kamakura is also popular as the "Kyoto of the East," and I can see why.  Although it is an hour from Tokyo, when you are there, you will be surrounded by the smell of salt and incense from the temples instead of exhaust from busy streets. Be sure to see the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Kotoku-in.  This is a large bronze hollow statue located outside.  Standing there, surrounded by trees and soft sea light, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility.  After visiting the Great Buddha, I walked to Yuigahama Beach to watch the surfers and the sunset before enjoying a meal of sukiyaki or shabu-shabu. 4. Hakone: A Breath of Mountain Air Travel Time: 2 Hours How to Get There: Odakyu “Romancecar” from Shinjuku. I recommend the Hakone Free Pass. Tokyo is the pulse of Japanese culture, and it is in Hakone where you'll find peace after the city's frenzied pace. Hakone is a beautiful blend of modern and ancient.  The first stop for my visit was at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where I walked among sculptures created by some of the most famous artists in the world, surrounded by natural beauty all around me.  Then, I took the Hakone Ropeway across the Owakudani Valley.  It is an active volcanic area where steam rises out of the ground, creating a picture of a living canvas.  On clear days, you may see Mt. Fuji as well.  The day was capped off with a boat ride on Lake Ashi aboard a vessel that resembled a "pirate ship."  I was hesitant about it being cheesy, but the sights were gorgeous. 5. The Easy Escape To Yokohama  Travel Time: 30 Minutes How to get there: JR Tokaido or Keihin-Tohoku Line from Tokyo Station (¥480). When I need to relax from the chaos of Tokyo, I tend to go to Yokohama.  Yokohama is the 2nd largest city in Japan. However, it has a much more relaxing atmosphere due to the harbor.  I enjoy taking a stroll along Minato Mirai, which is another word for "harbor view," while enjoying the ocean breeze.  For something "quirky", I went to the Cup Noodles Museum to create my own cup of noodles and to learn about the history of Nissin Food Products.  However, the highlight was visiting China Town, which is the largest in Japan.  My recommendation is to arrive at China Town around 4:00 or 5:00 PM.  It will be early enough to beat the dinner rush and late enough to see the entrance of all the glow from the lanterns.  Take a bag of roasted chestnuts and enjoy the view of the skyline from the water while riding on the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel. 6. A Trip Back In Time To Kawagoe Travel Time: 1 Hour How to get there: Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro or JR from Shinjuku. If you want a taste of the Edo period without trekking all the way to Kyoto, go to Kawagoe.  It’s a walkable town full of clay-walled warehouses and wooden merchant houses. When I arrived at 8 AM, I heard the Toki no Kane (Bell of Time) tolling in the stillness of the morning.  I went back 200 years in time.  If you have time to go to Candy Alley, everything is made from sweet potatoes, cakes, chips, and even ice cream!  I know it sounds strange, but I assure you that it is really good! 7. Kyoto: The Soul Of Japan Travel Time: 2 Hours (by Shinkansen) How to get there: Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station (¥13,320 one way). I usually tell people to stay at least two days in Kyoto, but if a day trip is all you can manage, do it. It is expensive, but it is worth every yen. To appreciate Kyoto fully, you should focus on finding peace and serenity rather than simply marking off temples from a to-do list.  Instead of fighting the crowds at the bamboo groves, I found my peace by sitting in the wonderful gardens of Kennin-Ji Temple and breathing the incense they burned there. 8. Enoshima: Islands And Icons  Travel Time: 2 Hours How to get there: Odakyu Line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima Station. Enoshima is where Japan’s coastal charm meets its spiritual side.  It’s a small island with a bridge and shrines dedicated to the goddess of the sea. Prepare to take many steps as you make your way to Iwaya Caves on the opposite end of the island.  The sound of waves'll surround you as you leave the noise of the city behind.  Furthermore, inside the caves, it’s a different world! After you leave the caves and head back, stop at a vendor and buy some grilled fish or seafood so you can enjoy the smoky aroma of the grilled fish while walking through Enoshima Island. 9. Chichibu: Mountains And Moss Travel Time: 2 Hours How to Get There: Seibu Line from Ikebukuro to Seibu-Chichibu Station. Chichibu is an outdoorsy place if you love the outdoors!  It's got mountains and has a strong cultural heritage.  If your timing is right in the spring, Hitsujiyama Park gets huge patches of pink and white moss phlox in bloom. This area has deliciously filling meals, including miso potatoes and waraji katsu (a pork cutlet that’s named after a straw sandal because of how large it is). 10. Karuizawa: The Alpine Retreat Travel Time: 1 Hour How to get there: Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station. Finally, there is Karuizawa. This is where Tokyo’s elite found an escape from the summer heat, and it still feels incredibly sophisticated. Renting a bicycle is one of the best ways to experience this area.  I spent my first morning biking through beautiful pine tree forests until I arrived at Kumoba Pond. The pond has such calm water that it feels like looking into a huge mirror!  In the winter, it turns into a beautiful, snowy retreat perfect for relaxing after spending several days in the city.  Read Also: Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth It In 2026? Should I Buy Or Avoid It As A Conscious Tourist? What Are The Things To Do In Oahu For Free? A Guide For Budget Travelers Festivals Of Light And Color: Experiencing Japan’s Vibrant Matsuri

BY  Sibashree Jun 1, 2026

Mirissa Beach has been one of the most sought-after destinations if you want to explore the south coastal lifestyle of Sri Lanka.  You can enjoy Mirissa with salt on your skin and a cold Lion beer in your hand. Furthermore, it is one of the most magical places to watch the sunset in Sri Lanka.  It initially started as a sleepy surf stopover, and then it had a handful of guesthouses and beach shacks.  Today, it is a small tourist town that buzzes with smoothie bowls, boutique stays, and a skyline that now brushes the palms. During my first visit to Sri Lanka, Mirissa, still pristine, was the place to track tides and enjoy rice and curry for lunch. The beer and BBQ culture after dark was still an occasion.  Also, as a backpacker, a family guesthouse near the Matara Highway was the accommodation I could manage at that time.  However, today, Mirissa has changed. Despite the same south-coastal rhythm, the pace of life here has become faster and the accommodations smarter.  So, here is a practical guide on where to stay in Mirissa.  Where To Stay In Mirissa? My Quick Picks  Before I get into the details about where to stay in Mirissa, here is my quick sneak peek into the top picks.  Top PickMirissa Beach VillaBest ValueD Canal HouseTop VillaVilla Vista, Mirissa Best for FamiliesCasa MariaBudget OptionBanana Bunks Where To Stay In Mirissa? A Detailed Overview  Based on the kind of experience you want, these are the best places to stay in Mirissa. I have picked them based on the pricing, amenities, and overall hospitality.  1. Mirissa Beach Villa ( My Top Pick) The Mirissa Beach Villa is a testament to the quintessential slow living style of the southern coast of Sri Lanka.  It has a white-washed facade and arched verandas. Furthermore, its classy interiors have hand-crafted teak furniture, soft linens, and splashes of tropical color. So, the moment you step in, you experience the warmth. Furthermore, the Mirissa Beach Villa never feels pretentious despite its elegance.  Furthermore, it has six bedrooms that are open terraces. Some of them face the Indian Ocean, and some the garden.  You can also enjoy your time in the dreamy infinity pool here.  2. D Canal House: The Best Value Option  D Canal House is stylish and peaceful. Furthermore, it is more personalized than other stays in Mirissa.  Also, it feels like a tropical hideaway in comparison to a hotel. Furthermore, it is surrounded by waterways and coconut palms.  Another great thing is that you can take just a short walk from D Canal House, and you will reach Mirissa Beach.  Along with its closeness to nature, D Canal House also boasts typical Sri Lankan artistry.  The whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and bursts of local color in the form of handwoven textiles and painted tiles! Everything here is very local!  Moreover, D Canal House has rooms and bungalows, and each has its own verandah overlooking the canal and the garden.  In addition, the saltwater pool is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon. 3. Villa Vista Mirissa: The Best Villa Experience You Want Villa Vista is perched high above Weligama Bay. It is a multi-level sanctuary with a polished concrete, timber, and glass structure.  It opens to the sea and the jungle.  Furthermore, Villa Vista is a part of The Serendipity Collection, offering the promised privacy.  Also, the suits in Villa Vista are minimalist, and the open-plan living spaces are airy. Moreover, it has an infinity pool that is elevated above the palms.  Moreover, Villa Vista stands out because of the details it takes care of. The furnishings here are locally crafted, and the walls slide away to allow the salty air in.  In addition, it has a private chef and a concierge team taking care of all your requirements. You can even opt for optional in-villa spa treatments.   4. Casa Maria: The Best Place To Stay For Families   Casa Maria is bright, airy, and charming. The whitewashed facade of the hotel looks like a slice of coastal Europe translated into the southern coast of Sri Lanka.  The rooms here are simple, and that is what offers the maximum comfort. It has white linens, concrete floors, and wide verandas overlooking the jungle and the pool.  Moreover, it offers an aesthetic sense of space with three pools dotted around the property and plenty of quiet corners to unwind. Here, the family room is the best option. It is spacious, comfortable, and carefully designed for kids and parents who want a more relaxing experience without compromising the charm of a boutique hotel.  5. Banana Bunks, The Best Budget Option In Mirissa  Banana Bunks is a short walk away from the happening cafe scene of Mirissa. It is also very close to Coconut Hill.  Also, if you want to know where to stay in Mirissa on a budget, Banana Bunks is the place you must choose.  Here, the rooms have bright, earthy tones, and they are well-maintained. Furthermore, the beds here are comfortable, and the bathrooms are generous.  Furthermore, some of the rooms here have amenities such as outdoor bathtubs and open-air showers.  In addition, you will find leafy communal spaces, a small pool, and an easy connection to Petti Petti Club.  The Petti Petti Club is the beachfront sister spot of Banana Bunks, and it is one of the coolest places to hang out in Mirissa.  How Long Should You Stay In Mirissa? The duration of your stay in Mirissa will depend on your itinerary.  If you are planning a short trip, two nights are enough to explore the beach and enjoy the local cuisine and sunset scenes before heading to the Hiriketiya Beach, the fascinating Ella, and Udawalawe.  However, if you want to enjoy a slow traveling experience, you can plan a stay of 3 to 5 nights here and sink into the rhythm.  You can spend your time here enjoying surfing and whale watching. You will also love the long, lazy afternoons.

BY  Sibashree Mar 25, 2026

The Shinkansen, or the Japanese Bullet Train, brought a revolution in the transportation system in the 1960s.  It was the need of the hour, considering the rapid growth in the economy. Also, it is an icon of the technological prowess and wealth of Japan.  These days, we have Vande Bharat in India, and no doubt the services and punctuality of these trains are spotless.  However, contrary to popular beliefs, they are never the same.  Why so?  To understand this, you need to take a ride in the Japanese Bullet Train.  However, is Japan Rail Pass worth it for the short and long rides in the Japanese Bullet Train?  In today’s blog, I will discuss its benefits and disadvantages in detail.  Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It?  Japan Rail Pass is a physical pass for train rides. It is only for tourists.  With this pass, you can enjoy unlimited train rides across Japan. Also, these passes include bullet train rides for a specific time span.  Japan Rail Pass Cost Check out the table below to understand the validity period and prices of the Japan Rail Pass.  Japan Rail Pass ValidityOrdinary Japan Rail Pass Cost Green Japan Rail Pass Cost7 Days PassAdult: 70,000 YENChildren: 35,000 YENAdult: 50,000 YENChildren: 25,000 YEN14 Days PassAdult: 110000 YENChildren: 55000 YENAdult: 80000 YENChildren: 40000 YEN21 Days PassAdult: 140000 YENChildren: 70000 YENAdult: 100000 YENChildren: 50000 YEN All ticket prices are sourced from the Japanrailpass.net. Also, remember that children mean kids below 12 years old.  From 12 years onward, they are considered adults.  Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth It? (Considering The Cost)  If you think that buying a Japan Rail Pass would hurt your wallet, you are making a mistake.  Yes, the Japan Rail Pass is expensive, especially if you are buying a Green Japan Rail Pass.  Still, if you want to try individual rides, the cost will be even higher. For example, a single trip to Nara from Tokyo costs 14500 YEN.  A really smart way to decide whether the Japan Rail Pass is worth it or not is to use a Japan Rail Pass Calculator.  Enter the departure and arrival points, check the ticket price for individual rides, and add them. Then, compare the total Japan Rail Pass cost to decide whether you need to buy it or not.  Also, consider the flexibility the Japan Rail Pass offers.  With a Rail Pass, you can complete as many rides as you want within the validity period. Also, there is no rush to buy a ticket every time you board a train.  Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It For Every Train?  The Japan Rail Pass does not cover every train service in Japan. However, it covers most train services.  Check out the details in the box.  Services Covered by Japan Rail PassServices That Japan Rail Pass Does Not Cover - Most Bullet Trains- Express Trains- Local Trains- The Narita Express, Running to Tokyo City from Narita Airport- Tokyo Monorail to and From the Haneda Airport - Joyful Trains in Japan- Bullet Trains Except Mizuho and Nozomi- The Metro Service in Tokyo and Other Cities- The Ferry Service Of Yakushima Where To Buy A Japan Rail Pass From?  You can buy the Japan Rail Pass from an authorized agent based in your country. Sometimes, these passes are available at the Osaka or Tokyo Railway stations or Haneda and Narita airports.  However, these passes are available for a limited time, and they charge around 10-20% extra charges.  Furthermore, upon reaching Japan, you can even buy the pass online at JRailPass.com. You can expect a delivery of the physical pass within 3-5 business days based on your location.  How To Take The First Ride With The Japan Rail Pass?  You have to get your Japan Rail Pass stamped before using it. You have to choose the JR Counter entry at any local and bullet railway station to pass through and board the train.  The JR Officer will check your passport and the JR Pass before stamping it.  From the next ride onward, you just need to show your JR Pass.  Activating your JR Pass at the railway station is always a better idea, as you can activate it only when you need it.  Usually, when you activate the pass at the airport, a day or two is wasted from the validity period, as the city metro services do not accept those passes.  Is Japan Rail Pass Worth It? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about whether the Japan Railway Pass is worth it or not.  1. Which Rail Pass Is The Best For Japan? The best Rail Pass for Japan will depend on your itinerary in Japan. For example, if you need to travel nationwide, you can choose a National Rail Pass for 7 to 21 days.On the other hand, Regional JR Passes are the best if you are focusing on specific regions such as Hokkaido or Kansai. 2. Can I Buy Japan Rail Pass From India? Yes, you can buy a Japan Rail Pass from India. In fact, it is a smart move to buy your Japan Rail Pass from an authorized agent in your country before starting the trip. At the Japanese Airports, buying the JR Pass can cost you 20-30% more. TBi Travels and Klook are some of the authorized services from which you can purchase the JR Pass online. When you buy the pass online from an authorized agent, you will receive an exchange order or a voucher via courier. You have to exchange that at the airport to collect the physical pass.  3. Can I Get Bento Boxes On The Trains In Japan? You can get Bento boxes at any railway station in Japan before boarding the train. You will also find vegan-friendly options for the bento boxes. However, you have to be very mindful about how you dispose of those bento boxes. You can throw them in the trash bins in the train, or after alighting from the train, you can dispose of them in the waste box at the station. You will not find trash cans frequently in Japan. So, you may have to carry them home if you do not dispose of them in time.  Read Also: Are You Planning A Trip To Osaka? This Is Your Quintessential Guide Festivals Of Light And Color: Experiencing Japan’s Vibrant Matsuri Is Japan Really An Expensive Place? Have A look